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Man arrested after being spotted by police ‘weaving all over road’ in Ravenshead during drink-drive crackdown

Emily Sanchez
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Man arrested after being spotted by police ‘weaving all over road’ in Ravenshead during drink-drive crackdown

A 44-year-old man was one of 160 detained by police over the Christmas period during a drink-drive crackdown after being spotted ‘weaving all over the road’ in Ravenshead.

He was found to be almost four times over the drink-drive limit.

The arrest was included in figures that showed an average of five people a day were arrested for drink and drug driving offences last month as officers increased pressure on those putting lives at risk on our roads.

A total of 160 arrests were made for drink and drug driving offences – a very slight decrease from the 168 detentions during the same period last year.

Police drink drive crackdown

Others arrested during the crackdown included

  • A 32-year-old man arrested after driving into a hedge in Gamston
  • A 20-year-old man arrested after crashing into Nottingham’s Guildhall building
  • A 26-year-old man arrested following a serious collision in Normanton-on-the-Wolds
  • A woman who claimed, “I’m not even drunk,” after giving a positive roadside test

Multiple suspects were also detained and prosecuted for failing to provide samples at the roadside and while in custody.

Throughout the Christmas period, roads policing officers say they took a proactive approach to stopping and testing drivers on the county’s roads.

Sergeant Jim Carrington, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said:“Despite the very familiar warnings about the consequences of driving under the influence, there are still far too many people risking others’ safety by doing so.

“As a roads policing officer, I’ve seen the most extreme consequences more times than I can remember – people killed and seriously injured as a direct result of someone choosing to drive under the influence.

“For those individuals, the consequences will almost certainly involve a prison sentence.

“For most offenders, however, the consequences are of a lesser order of magnitude – but still extremely serious and, in many cases, life‑altering.

“A drink-driving conviction will weigh heavily on people for many years to come. It can strain relationships at home and may lead directly to the loss of a job or even a whole career.

“All in all, it really isn’t worth taking the risk.”

Why Users Prefer Licensed Online Platforms

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Why Users Prefer Licensed Online Platforms

The popularity of online platforms has surged in recent years, offering users convenience, variety, and instant access to entertainment. However, with this growth comes a wide range of options, some of which operate without proper oversight. Users increasingly prioritize platforms that provide not only engaging experiences but also legal security and reliable safeguards for their money and personal information.

Why Licensed Platforms Inspire Trust

In today’s rapidly expanding online entertainment market, users are increasingly cautious about where they invest their time and money. Licensed online platforms provide a sense of security that unregulated websites simply cannot match. The presence of an official license signals to users that the platform adheres to industry standards, ensuring fair play, data protection, and responsible gaming practices. For many, this regulatory assurance is a decisive factor in choosing where to play.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

Security is a top priority for players when selecting an online platform. Licensed operators are required to implement strict cybersecurity measures to protect user information and financial transactions. These measures often include:

  • Encrypted payment systems to safeguard sensitive data;
  • Regular audits to verify the integrity of games and software;
  • Compliance with international standards for responsible gaming.

By ensuring these protections, licensed platforms create a safer environment that attracts users who might otherwise avoid online gambling. Additionally, many platforms collaborate with specialized services such as LegalPilot to obtain proper gambling licenses, helping them navigate complex legal frameworks and maintain credibility.

Fair Play and Transparency

A major reason users gravitate toward licensed platforms is the assurance of fair play. Licensed operators are subject to continuous oversight, which includes:

  • Independent testing of games to guarantee randomness and fairness;
  • Clear rules and terms of service to prevent disputes;
  • Transparent payout and bonus policies.

This level of transparency builds confidence among users, as they know that the games are not rigged and their funds are secure. In contrast, unlicensed websites often lack these safeguards, creating hesitation among cautious players.

Building Long-Term Loyalty

Ultimately, licensed platforms foster long-term relationships with their users. Trust and reliability lead to higher engagement, repeat visits, and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Platforms that demonstrate consistent compliance with regulatory standards are better positioned to retain a loyal user base. Users appreciate knowing that their experience is backed by recognized authorities, making them more likely to recommend the platform to friends and colleagues.

Licensed online platforms are not just a legal requirement—they are a critical factor in attracting and retaining users. Through enhanced security, fair play, and compliance with international regulations, these platforms provide an experience that unlicensed sites cannot match, ensuring both peace of mind and a more enjoyable gaming environment.

Charterpoint submits planning application for new care home in Gedling

Emily Sanchez
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Charterpoint submits planning application for new care home in Gedling

Senior living developer Charterpoint has submitted a planning application to build a new 80-bed care home in Gedling.

The proposals are for a modern three-storey building on land off Lambley Lane which has recently been used as a building site compound by the developer delivering the housing development at Gedling Quarter.

This site has been identified for residential use within Gedling Borough Council’s Local Plan.

The care home plans include 80 ensuite bedrooms, along with lounges, dining areas, activity and hobby rooms, a café, and a hairdresser.

Access would be via an improved existing access off Lambley Lane.

The plans are the latest in a long line of care homes developed by senior living specialist Charterpoint, which is based at Edwalton, Nottingham.

Charterpoint CEO Adrian Goose said: “As a site that has been allocated for residential use within Gedling Borough Council’s Local Plan, this plot is in an ideal position for a care home.

“Our research suggests that a new, modern, purpose-built care home in Gedling would be an asset to the local community – providing high quality and necessary accommodation for seniors and also helping to free up homes in the area for families.

“With a strong track record of developing attractive care homes across the East Midlands and further afield, Charterpoint is very pleased to have submitted plans to Gedling Borough Council for our latest proposed scheme in Nottinghamshire.”

The care home has been designed by KWL Architects.

Charterpoint specialises in developing senior living accommodation, mixed-use and sustainable housing schemes, and primary care premises.

For more information about the Charterpoint Group, visit www.charterpointgroup.co.uk

Carlton-based developer makes seven-figure investment to help Notts coffee firm expand into Leicester

Gedling Eye
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Carlton-based developer makes seven-figure investment to help Notts coffee firm expand into Leicester

One of the region’s fastest‑growing coffee and bakery brands has secured a seven‑figure investment from a Carlton-based businessman, paving the way for major expansion. 

It is a move that sees Arran Bailey, founder of ALB Group, go from letting city centre premises to fast-growing coffee shop and bakery Public, to financially backing the brand and breathing new life into Britain’s high streets. 

Arran first let his Low Pavement building to Public in Nottingham in August 2024. But after witnessing the buzz and business acumen behind the brand, he became a shareholder and offered a substantial loan to fuel its growth.  

He said: “I’ve seen the passion and skill behind this brand first-hand. That’s why I invested financially. The investment also continues my mission of rejuvenating our city and town centres.”  

The investment has already secured the opening date of the new Leicester branch and enabled the purchase of a freehold property in Edinburgh to continue the businesses expansion.  

Public Leicester will open in the city’s New Walk area as part of its £10 million regeneration scheme.  

The store will continue the brand’s ethos of bringing people of all ages together in a social space served by a high-quality food and drink offering.  

Founder Raffaele Russo describes the concept as combining welcoming interiors, conducive to socialising and co-working, with exceptional food and drink.  

He said: “Each venue features a theatrical on-site bakery, communal tables for co-working, and a vibrant social atmosphere that attracts students, professionals, and shoppers alike.  

“It’s a place to relax, collaborate, and connect. Everything is made in full view of the customer—it’s part of the experience.”  

It’s a concept that has already thrived in Loughborough, Mountsorrel and Nottingham, with the Low Pavement, Nottingham branch, for instance, has drawn over 5000 customers a week since its launch in August 2024.  

The company expansion is set to continue with clusters planned across the Midlands and Scotland. After Leicester will come Edinburgh, then it’s eyes on Manchester, Leeds, Bath, and Bristol. The team says Public is on track to hit double-digit locations by the end of 2026.

Arran Bailey said: “It is important to us that we open in cities and towns that will benefit from a sense of community and regeneration. In buildings that perhaps are difficult to repurpose for some reason or another. We want the building to be cultural anchors. So far, we have repurposed old banks, mills, cinemas, and even a former bingo hall in Edinburgh. Each location is designed to preserve the architectural character of the building in which it is housed.  

In Nottingham, Public is housed in a Grade II listed former bank which dates to 1836. Arran said the building had been empty for years. Now it is a hub and one that has created jobs as well as providing a service.  

When the Leicester site opens, a further 25 people will be employed, contributing to a total of 125 roles across all current venues.  

ALB Group’s broader regeneration efforts are transforming city centres up and down the country.  In Nottingham alone, ALB has reignited the buzz of Bridlesmith Gate, gradually buying 14 business premises in pedestrian street and creating vibrant murals to bring about a ‘Carnaby vibe’ to the area. The acquisitions and regeneration soon spread to Low Pavement and Lister Gate – all of the ALB properties are now let or under offer.  

Arran said: “Public has been the perfect anchor to let other buildings in the area. Its success is well deserved and seeing queues up the street from 8 til 8 is proof that the high street can thrive again.”

The turnaround in fortunes has encouraged big names to other buildings in the location too. The Ivy opened its doors in Bridlesmith Gate, while high end designer Paul Smith has always seen the merit of the area.

Roadworks and closures planned for Gedling borough this week

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Roadworks and closures planned for Gedling borough this week

Take a look at the roadworks and closures scheduled for Gedling borough’s roads for the week beginning December 15

Make sure to plan your journey and check before your travel as these planned works could affect you. 

Lambley Lane, Burton Joyce
26 January – 02 February
Delays likely – Road closure
Responsibility for event: Nottinghamshire County Council

Saville Road, Arnold
22 January
Road closure
Responsibility for event: Nottinghamshire County Council

Westdale Lane East, Gedling
20 January – 21 January
Road closure
Location: Westdale Lane East

Wighay Road, Linby
20 January – 21 January
Road closure
Responsibility for event: Nottinghamshire County Council

Haywood Road, Mapperley
23 January – 13 February
Road closure
Responsibility for event: Nottinghamshire County Council

Breck Hill Road, Woodthorpe
21 January – 23 January
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Central Avenue, Mapperley
26 January – 13 February
Traffic management: Road closure
Responsibility for works: Cadent

Haywood Road, Mapperley
23 January – 13 February
Roadworks, Delays likely

Saville Road, Arnold
22 January – 22 January
Road closure
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Arno Vale Road, Woodthorpe
22 January
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Carlton Hill, Carlton
23 January
Roadworks, Delays possible
Reinstating Central refuge bollards and post after RTC
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Willow Lane, Gedling
20 January
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Four years in jail for burglar who targeted Netherfield store

Graham Finch
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Four years in jail for burglar who targeted Netherfield store

A burglar will now spend years behind bars after a Items were stolen from a Netherfield store during a recent thieving spree.

The thief also targeted stores in Beeston, Stapleford and Wollaton during seven thefts throughout last November and December.

Christos Iona also broke into a Beeston-based student accommodation no less than five separate times.

Iona repeatedly invited himself inside Graduation House, High Road, before going into different apartments to steal.

The thief then brazenly walked out the building carrying the items – which included TVs from four flats and an arcade machine.

PICTURED: Christos Iona

Having managed to identify Iona from available CCTV and link him to the offences, officers managed to catch Iona within days of his final theft.

Despite Iona being of no fixed address, the Chilwell Neighbourhood Policing team managed to track him down to a Beeston address on December 18.

As well as arresting the 27-year-old, police also found and recovered all four of the stolen TVs at other addresses linked to him.

Neighbourhood officers and detectives charged Iona with 13 offences.

These were five burglaries, seven shop thefts and one count of handling stolen goods. The thief pleaded guilty to all of them when he appeared in court on December 29.

Iona, of no fixed address, returned to Nottingham Crown Court on Wednesday (14), where he was sentenced to four years behind bars.

PC Samantha Gledhill, of the Chilwell Neighbourhood Policing team, said: “Christos Iona clearly thought he was above the law when he decided to repeatedly burgle and shoplift. 

“He was wrong, with the lengthy spell he’ll now spend in jail illustrating that fact and the consequences of doing what he did.

“We were really pleased to hear he received such a significant custodial sentence, with a lot of collaborative police work taking place to make this possible.

“The tenacity shown by our teams of detectives and neighbourhood officers helped bring his crime spree to an end and build a watertight case against him.”

‘We’re not a slash and burn council’: Nottinghamshire County Council finance councillor defends Reform’s planned £40m savings

Lauren Monaghan
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‘We’re not a slash and burn council’: Nottinghamshire County Council finance councillor defends Reform’s planned £40m savings

Nottinghamshire’s Reform finance official has insisted plans to find more than £40 million in budget savings “are not cuts” as the authority bids to ease financial pressures.

An update to Nottinghamshire County Council’s finances was presented in the authority’s Overview Committee meeting on Thursday (January 15).

Councils across the country are dealing with increased money pressures, particularly in adult social care, where care package costs and national living wages from providers are rising.

The Reform-led authority says the increase in financial pressures across its departments up to 2028/29 totals £40 million, with this total figure to 2028/29 now standing at £94.2 million.

Nigel Stevenson, the authority’s finance director, says the growth in cost and demand for adult social care for the 2026/27 financial year has risen by 10 per cent.

But the council plans to find £44.2 million in what it calls ‘mitigations’ by 2028/29 across its medium term financial strategy – an authority’s financial plan on how it will maintain financial stability.

These mitigations – branded cuts by opponents – includes savings of around £21.3 million in adult social care, £17.5 million in its children and families department and around £2.75 million in SEND transport savings.

The county council’s finance councillor, Stuart Matthews, says these planned savings “are not cuts” and insisted “we’re not a slash and burn administration”.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “From my business perspective, it’s finding a better way of doing it. New officers in adult social care and children’s services have grasped this with welcomeness and new ideas.

“It’s about maximising prevention, optimising packages for care, internal efficiencies, income and charging.”

Cllr Matthews’ business background has seen him build “two businesses up from nothing”, selling one for £3 million and the other for £1.5 million. He says he is “very confident” in the authority’s financial standing, adding: “I’ve never worked in any establishment that’s bankrupt – I’m not going to start now.”

Opposition members have expressed concern for the planned £44.2 million of savings, calling it “the largest mitigation programme this council has every put forward”.

In a statement to the LDRS, Conservative shadow cabinet member for finance, Cllr Stuart Bestwick, said it relies on “reversing national trends” in adult social care, children’s services and SEND demand.

He said: “In local government, budgets overspend for two reasons: rising demand and savings that don’t materialise. If savings on this scale fail, residents always pay the price – through service cuts or higher council tax.

“Despite repeated references to efficiency reviews, there are still no clear figures showing what those reviews have actually delivered so far.”

Another notable figure in the meeting’s documents shows a £28.7 million budget gap by 2028/29 as of December 2025 – a rise from the projected £15.9 million budget shortfall published in November 2025.

But Cllr Matthews says the authority has reached this £28.7 million figure by not factoring in some use of reserves and by acting as if council tax was set at zero, “before any discussions of what council tax is going to be”.

He added: “It suggests plenty of headroom of what the council tax level would be. You can infer from that, that any council tax intention is to make sure the council is not in deficit.”

The Reform administration says it inherited a £20.8 million deficit in adult social care from the previous Conservative council, where it is expected to be around £10 million by the end of 2025/26.

Council papers say: “Any overspend at year-end will draw upon reserves.”

Cllr Bestwick’s (Con) statement said: “Reform did not inherit a failing council from us Conservatives – they inherited a financially well-run, efficient authority managing pressures felt across the whole country.

“The £28.7m figure being quoted is based on a scenario that assumes no council tax increase and no planned use of reserves. That is not a real-world budget position.

“What is real is that Reform are already drawing on reserves to deal with in-year overspending. Reserves can buy time, but they are not a long-term solution.”

Flats plan for former dance studio on Carlton Hill approved

Gedling Eye
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Flats plan for former dance studio on Carlton Hill approved

Plans to turn an old dance studio into a number of flats have been approved despite concerns from a nearby GP surgery.

Applicant Chris Pycroft’s proposals to convert the building at 428 Carlton Hill, Carlton, into 11 one-bed flats were criticised by a doctor, who argued the building should be retained for community use.

Part of the vacant building was used by the Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama before the charity relocated, while the upper floor was used as office space.

At a Gedling Borough Council planning committee meeting on Wednesday (January 14) the plans were approved in spite of several concerns.

Dr James Kitchin, who works as a Trentside Medical Group GP at an adjacent site, said the surgery had been looking to obtain the building due to the need to expand its services in the area.

“Whilst [the building] was not openly marketed, Trentside Medical Group did find out the sale was proceeding at a later date and did submit a bid to acquire the property, due to a need to expand our existing medical operation within Carlton,” he said, speaking at the meeting.

“Unfortunately we were too late to succeed with this. Had proper open marketing taken place it is highly likely we would have pursued and succeeded in acquiring the building.

“Our other concerns include that they will provide poor quality one bedroom accommodation, with the whole submission appearing to have been rushed.

“As the applicant’s existing buildings provide supported accommodation for vulnerable people, including those with drug and alcohol dependency issues, it is clearly likely vulnerable people will be housed in this low quality housing scheme.

“This makes the practice worry for the safety and security of our staff who handle and dispense prescription drugs as part of their work.”

Councillors expressed a mix of views over the plans.

Cllr Ruth Strong (Lab) questioned the small size of the flats, but was informed by an officer they met the minimum space requirements.

She added: “I would be glad to see an empty building put to such good use.”

Three neighbours objected to the plans, raising issues with the lack of information provided over who would be inhabiting the flats, fears that gardens could be overlooked.

One objection suggested work had already commenced on the site.

Cllr Jane Allen (Con) added: “I’m very concerned about the amount of concerns from neighbours. There is an awful lot.

“Have a lot of these concerns been raised by planning with the developer, but what I’m most concerned about is one person saying the works are nearly complete?”

However, a planning officer replied, saying this was not the case. They said: “They have taken out some windows but there is nothing to suggest they have changed the use or the use has commenced.

“They are basically doing what you might describe as maintenance. It is not a retrospective application.”

Man jailed for attempted murder after ‘frenzied’ attack outside supermarket in Mapperley

Gedling Eye
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Man jailed for attempted murder after ‘frenzied’ attack outside supermarket in Mapperley

A man has been jailed after repeatedly stabbing a man during a ‘frenzied’ knife attack on Westdale Lane in Mapperley

The victim suffered around 80 stab wounds and other injuries at the hands of his former friend Simon McHugh, outside a supermarket.

McHugh’s brutal attack, on May 6, 2025, left the victim lying in the road before the attacker fled the scene and went on the run.

The incident unfolded after McHugh arrived at the victim’s home and asked him for a lift to his mother’s house.

PICTURED: Simon McHugh

An altercation between them began within moments as the vehicle was seen rolling across Westdale Lane.

The car crashed into a wall before both men stumbled out and McHugh was seen repeatedly knifing the victim as they fought in front of passing traffic.

He escaped by climbing onto a roof nearby and fleeing the scene.

McHugh stole a car after breaking into a home in Burton Joyce early the following morning, telling the startled homeowner he ‘needed help’.

Armed police arrested McHugh after a manhunt.

Investigations revealed that prior to the knife attack, McHugh had tied a woman and her child to a chair in Ripley, Derbyshire, hours before travelling to Nottinghamshire.

How Gedling Residents Are Spending Their Holiday Evenings and Weekends

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As the festive season approaches, Gedling residents are finding a variety of ways to make the most of their holiday evenings and weekends. From at-home relaxation to short local outings, the focus is on enjoyment, comfort, and social connection. Even amidst the busy holiday period, residents are carving out time to unwind and engage in activities that bring joy and help maintain wellbeing.

Cosy Movie Nights

During the holiday season, many Gedling residents are embracing the comfort of home-based leisure. Watching festive films or streaming popular series has become a staple for those looking to relax after a busy day. Titles such as The Holiday, Love Actually, Elf, Home Alone, and The Great British Bake Off Christmas specials provide familiar entertainment that is easy to enjoy alone or with housemates. Some residents like to mix classics with newer releases, ensuring there’s always something fresh to watch. Listening to seasonal playlists or podcasts is another popular way to unwind, allowing residents to enjoy music, comedy, or storytelling while preparing food or simply resting. These at-home activities provide a sense of calm and routine amidst the festive rush.

Digital Entertainment at Home

Technology also plays a significant role in how residents unwind. Video games, casual mobile games, and online casino platforms have become popular options for evening entertainment. Many locals enjoy testing new games or revisiting familiar favourites, with online platforms offering both convenience and variety. Online casinos, in particular, have grown in popularity, featuring immersive gameplay, unique titles, and accepting a wide variety of payment methods. From bank transfers to credit cards and even cryptocurrency, online casinos have adapted to meet the growing consumer demand for flexible payment options. Credit cards, especially, have gained traction because the best credit card casinos ensure that at-home bettors can easily and efficiently fund their online gaming accounts, avoiding potential delays or hassles.

These digital options allow residents to relax and enjoy leisure time without leaving home, making it easier to balance entertainment with daily routines, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Exploring Local Attractions

While home-based leisure is popular, many locals also head out to explore seasonal displays, local parks, and nearby attractions. Gedling has a range of accessible outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy fresh air, winter scenery, or festive light displays. Short walks or casual strolls around the town provide an opportunity to stretch the legs and take in the holiday atmosphere. Some residents even make trips further afield to London to experience the city’s famous Christmas light displays, taking in iconic streets and neighbourhoods adorned with festive decorations. Others use this time to visit independent shops, supporting local businesses while browsing for unique gifts and seasonal treats.

Dining and Social Gatherings

Holiday evenings and weekends in Gedling often include socialising over meals or casual catch-ups with friends. Local restaurants and cafés offer a variety of festive menus and seasonal specials, giving residents a chance to enjoy dining out in a relaxed setting. Whether sampling winter dishes, sharing desserts, or simply enjoying a hot drink, these outings allow for social connection and help strengthen community ties during the holidays. For those preferring smaller gatherings, inviting friends over for a meal or coffee at home provides a warm, comfortable alternative.

Decorating Homes for the Holidays

Many locals enjoy dedicating part of their free time to decorating their homes for the festive season. From stringing lights and setting up Christmas trees to arranging wreaths and seasonal ornaments, holiday décor brings warmth and cheer to living spaces. Residents often add personal touches, such as handmade decorations or family heirlooms, to create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Decorating not only enhances the visual appeal of the home but also becomes an enjoyable activity that sets the mood for the season and encourages creativity.

Creative and Leisure Activities

Gedling residents also often dedicate time to hobbies and creative pursuits. Baking festive treats, experimenting with new recipes, reading, or even learning new skills online are common ways to spend evenings and weekends. Some enjoy arts and crafts, seasonal decorations, or photography, capturing the town’s holiday scenery. These activities not only provide relaxation but also a sense of personal accomplishment and enjoyment during the festive season.

Conclusion

Gedling residents are embracing a balance of home-based comfort, local exploration, and digital leisure this holiday season. From cosy movie nights and decorating homes to gaming sessions, dining out with friends, and enjoying winter walks, there is a wealth of ways to make the most of evenings and weekends. By combining relaxation, creativity, and social interaction, residents are able to unwind effectively while making the holidays enjoyable, memorable, and meaningful.

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